The 5 Best Quick Access Gun Safes
All the specs of a gun safe are crucial. However, people tend to look for the best quick access gun safe first. This is because when people keep their firearms for protection, they want these to be at arm's length. They also want to make sure that they can easily access these weapons without wasting a second. A quick-access safe is made for contingent situations, where every second and move of the hand matters.
There are a plethora of options if you are looking for a list of the best quick access gun safes. It will be challenging to look for one that fits the budget and your security demands. We crafted a list for you to expedite your search for the best quick access gun safe. You can compare each product and look for a top pick of your own.
Comparison Chart
SentrySafe QAP1BE Gun Safe with Biometric Lock
This SentrySafe model is our top pick due to its advanced technology, specifically its innovative biometric technology. You can access your weapons in no time. Aside from that, it has a certification from the California DOJ requirements.
GunVault SV500 - SpeedVault Handgun Safe
This gun safe looks more like a gun holder than an actual safe. It has an access security built-in to prevent kids from getting their hands on the weapon. GunVault is mainly for self-defense rather than storage. It has a drop-down drawer design, which makes it different from other gun safes.
Viking Security Safe VS-25BL Biometric Safe Fingerprint Safe
This Viking model has a reliable biometric lock system. With its interior dimension, you can store two full-size 1911, with durable and adjustable shelving. The latter can hold three magazines with ammunition. It has solid and durable construction with a full-welded body of 2mm thick steel plate.
Stealth Handgun Hanger Safe Quick Access Pistol Security Box
This safe is for owners who own several guns and want to have the fastest access safe in case of an emergency. It has a hanger design that can accommodate up to five handguns. For a mental picture, you will have three pistols hanging in an upright position and two of which placed flat on the floor of the safe.
Vaultek VT20i Biometric Handgun Bluetooth Smart Safe
You will love the sleek design and reliable biometric technology of this safe. Its size is compact enough for convenience, but not too constrained for bigger weapons. The construction of this Vaultek safe is impressive for its 16 gauge carbon steel body to give base protection against elements.
Best Quick Access Gun Safe Reviews
SentrySafe QAP1BE Gun Safe with Biometric Lock
Product Highlights
This SentrySafe model is our top pick due to its advanced technology, specifically its innovative biometric technology. You can access your weapons in no time. Aside from that, it has a certification from the California DOJ requirements. This means that you can only purchase weapons from this manufacturer with the requirements of a DOJ-approved gun safe. Since they only intend to bring the best security to a household, you must also secure a valid Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC).
Its 12 gauge steel construction offers unparalleled protection against drilling, punches, or any attempts at forcefully opening the safe. The pry-resistant door prevents unauthorized access to the safe. This safe is perfectly compact for stowing near your bedside or under a car seat, your choice.
The Good
This safe is equipped with compression gas strut to activate the top-opening door without making a single noise. All you have to do is swipe your registered finger on the scanner. After this, the door instantly opens so you can reach for the gun immediately. It is safe to say that you can get your gun at lightning speed with this safe.
The Bad
SentrySafe has short battery life, enough to only reach two months of use. The other drawback is the limited access options. You can only open it through the top opening door, which means that you can’t mount it on the wall in a vertical manner for side access.
PROs
CONs
GunVault SV500 - SpeedVault Handgun Safe
Product Highlights
This gun safe looks more like a gun holder than an actual safe. It has an access security built-in to prevent kids from getting their hands on the weapon. GunVault is mainly for self-defense rather than storage. It has a drop-down drawer design, which makes it different from other gun safes. You are always ready to fire a shot from your work desk, bedside, or even from behind the counter.
You can mount this safe on any piece of furniture, such as your desk, cabinet, or nightstand. It has an 18 gauge steel construction that is safe enough from any attempt to be opened by kids. The protective foam liner in its interior protects your gun from scratches and at the same time, hold the gun in a steady position.
The Good
For locking systems, you may choose between the biometric lock version and the four-button locking system. However, to be on the safe side, it was recommended by other users to use the combination lock version instead. Moreover, the interior LED light is helpful when you are trying to access your gun in the dark.
The Bad
There is a faint winding sound when locking and unlocking. This is not a very helpful feature as this may alert the intruder and catch his attention.
PROs
CONs
Viking Security Safe VS-25BL Biometric Safe Fingerprint Safe
Product Highlights
This Viking model has a reliable biometric lock system. With its interior dimension, you can store two full-size 1911, with durable and adjustable shelving. The latter can hold three magazines with ammunition. It has solid and durable construction with a full-welded body of 2mm thick steel plate. You do not need to worry about a getaway burglary since the product weighs 27 lbs. That is almost impossible to drag and carry.
You can bolt the safe down on four pre-drilled holes with anchor bolts as well. Additionally, the carpeted interior keeps your gun and other valuables free from scratches. The safe also holds a fully adjustable shelf for you to organize your firearms and ammunition.
The Good
In case the biometric safe fails to function, which is unlikely, you can use the numeric keypad for access instead. For the worst-case scenario, like when you run out of battery, you will be rescued by the backup keys made for such purpose.
The Bad
There is an audible beeping sound once you unlock the safe. This is not good when you are trying your best not to alert the intruder.
PROs
CONs
Stealth Handgun Hanger Safe Quick Access Pistol Security Box
Product Highlights
This safe is for owners who own several guns and want to have the fastest access safe in case of an emergency. It has a hanger design that can accommodate up to five handguns. For a mental picture, you will have three pistols hanging in an upright position and two of which placed flat on the floor of the safe. The guns are arranged in such a manner for quick access and easy drawing.
Stealth Safes come with pre-drilled holes so you can bolt down the safe to any preferred location. Also, due to its 14 gauge steel construction, the safe can withstand high impact and still keep your guns in mint condition. The door of the safe has anti-pry tabs to offer the best pry protection from pry attacks.
The Good
This product is one of the best when it comes to quick access. When it comes to its combination lock, once you punched the code, the door immediately snaps down and opens at lightning speed. You will not waste a second in getting your guns.
The Bad
The four buttons' location can be pretty restricting. If you choose to install the safe under your bed, desk, or cabinet, you would need some space clearance. It can be challenging to reach the buttons in this case.
PROs
CONs
Vaultek VT20i Biometric Handgun Bluetooth Smart Safe
Product Highlights
You will love the sleek design and reliable biometric technology of this safe. Its size is compact enough for convenience, but not too constrained for bigger weapons. The construction of this Vaultek safe is impressive for its 16 gauge carbon steel body to give base protection against elements. Moreover, the powder-coated exterior gives a nice finish and industrial protection against corrosion and rust.
Only one hand is needed when it comes to unlocking the safe, and you can make a phone call while you’re at it. The biometric system of this model can store up to twenty fingerprints. You can add trusted users’ fingerprints as you wish. If you find the biometric scanner a hassle, you may also go for the alternative five-button keypad entry.
The Good
The most impressive feature of this app is that you can operate the safe through the Vaultek app, which you can download on Google Play or App Store. Through this, you can unlock the safe through Bluetooth. Aside from that function, the app also allows you to check battery levels, switch off the sound or the interior light, and even track the usage of your safe.
The Bad
The price is a downside since it can be relatively expensive.
PROs
CONs
Buyer’s Guide
We will discuss in this section all the information you need to buy the best quick access gun safe.
Easy access
The primary goal of a gun safe is for you to access it during emergencies easily. Make sure that the safe you are about to choose is fool-proof when it comes to unforeseen situations. Test before you buy one.
Waterproof and Fireproof
Some situations are inevitable such as fire and calamities. You should purchase a safe that is both waterproof and fireproof unless you prefer otherwise. These kinds of safes can be quite pricey, so you have to think it through before taking your pick.
Size
Installing a safe requires thorough planning before installation. Most of them have to be installed with concrete. This is why you need to consider the size of your safe before installing it anywhere. Consider the available space you have in your home or office.
Easy operation
Some safes are opened daily, and some are opened once in a while. For those that are opened daily, you have to consider the easy operation. This is especially when you are in a rush daily. It can be extremely stressful to have a safe that is difficult to unlock at the most crucial times.
Durability
Safes, in general, are exposed to moisture, dirt, and other ground elements. Make sure that your safe is made with durable metal for long-lasting performance. We suggest that you buy one that is made of solid steel and has a cover that comes with the package.
FAQs
How do I choose the right safe?
Choosing the right safe can be difficult. You have to look into all the aspects as enumerated in our buyer's guide. That way, you will get the right product for your needs.
Why do I need a gun safe?
Your gun safe is your last line of defense against a burglar, thief, or any harmful person who breaks into your house. A surveillance system is not enough, you need an actual defense, which is a gun, and that gun should be hidden somewhere safe.
How do I clean and maintain my safe?
The interior of your safe does not need cleaning or lubrication since it already has permanent lubrication. Once in a while, you would need to lubricate the door bolts to prevent rust. The rust might make it difficult for you to open the safe, especially if it is mechanical.
What is a biometric safe?
Simply put, a biometric safe has the technology that recognizes your fingerprint so that you can open the safe. Other safes can program multiple fingerprints
Should I bolt my safe?
Yes, you definitely should. No matter how heavy your safe is, it is always better to bolt it down. Make sure it is bolted to a concrete foundation.
Final Verdict
Now you know our top pick for the best quick access gun safe and other viable options in the market. You have read their detailed descriptions and our purchase guide. Hopefully, this article was able to assist you in your decision making. Quick access is a crucial variable in choosing the best gun safe. You can look into more brands that fit your needs. However, you may rest assured that our top five picks will not disappoint you.